Flying Colours (Hornblower Saga) - C.S. Forester

Facing a French firing squad, the Terror of the Mediterranean makes a daring bid for freedom. Well deserving of his nickname, Hornblower escapes down the Loire, finding shelter with the Comte de Gracay and his auburn-haired daughter. The dramatic chase and naval skirmish that follow bring Captain Hornblower ever closer to England—and liberty.